Gemstone Directory Turquoise | Turquoise |
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 In the thirteenth century Turquoise was named after the French words 'pierre turquoise' meaning Turkish stone. This is thought to have arisen from a misconception that Turquoise originated in Turkey when in fact it originated in Persia and only entered Europe through Turkey.Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones and was being mined by the Egyptians in the Sinai as early as 5,500 BC. The blue colour of Turquoise was believed to have powerful metaphysical properties by many ancient cultures. In ancient Mexico it was reserved for the Gods and could not be worn by mere mortals. In Asia, it was considered an effective protection against the evil eye and in Tibet today, it is by far the most popular of all gemstones used for personal adornment and still plays an important part in religious ceremonies. In the South West of the United States the Apache Indians believed Turquoise would help warriors and hunters hit their targets more accurately if their spears or arrows were tipped with Turquoise. The Zuni tribe believed it protected them from demons and it was also believed by some that it had the power to protect the wearer from injury should they fall, especially from a horse and it also made the horse more sure footed. Turquoise was worn around the necks of Egyptian Pharaohs and adorned the ceremonial dress of early native American Indians. It has been attributed with unlimited healing powers as well as promoting the wearer's status and wealth. Turquoise remains a sacred stone to many of the American Indian tribes. Turquoise was so highly valued that all 79 Emeralds in the crown that Napoleon I gave to his consort Empress Marie Louise were replaced with Persian Turquoise cabochons. As a healing stone, Turquoise it is among the crystal healing master gemstones. It is said that its powers can benefit the entire body, with special strengths in healing ailments of the immune, respiratory, waste and skeletal systems. Healers recommend it for detoxification of alcohol, poison, pollution or radiation, for treatment of high blood pressure, asthma, infections and dental problems. In relation to the mind, Turquoise is supposed to be a stone of communication and is used for those who have a fear of public speaking. It is also believed to improve the mental state overall by increasing serenity, creativity, empathy, positive thinking, sensitivity, intuition, happiness and wisdom. Turquoise is one of the birthstones for December and the anniversary gemstone for the 11th year of marriage. The ancient mines of Mashad (Iran) are considered to be the best source of the finest Turquoise. The most important producers are Iran, South West United States, Tibet, China, Afghanistan and Australia. Turquoise is graded 5 to 6 on Mohs scale of mineral hardness
The following websites offer further interesting reading on the gemstone Turquoise
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